Haiti Can ‘Ill Afford’ Prolonging Transitional Governance, Secretary-General Says, Urging Authorities to Seek Peaceful Completion of 2015 Elections

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General takes note of the release of the report on the verification of the electoral process in Haiti.  The Secretary-General underlines that Haiti can ill afford a prolonged period of transitional governance.

He is concerned that this situation has the potential to adversely affect international support to Haiti.  He reiterates the need for a democratically elected leadership to take on the growing socioeconomic and humanitarian challenges the country faces.

The Secretary-General recalls the responsibility of the Provisional Presidency, the Government and the Provisional Electoral Council to identify a way forward that guarantees the peaceful completion of the 2015 elections.  He exhorts all stakeholders to ensure a return to constitutional order as an urgent priority.

The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the United Nations to support the democratic aspirations of the Haitian people.  He calls on all parties to contribute to the maintenance of security and stability in the country and actively discourage violence during this challenging period.